Climate and monthly weather forecastLeeuwarden, Netherlands
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden, the capital city of the province of Friesland in the Netherlands, experiences a temperate maritime climate, classified as Cfb under the Köppen climate classification. The city's geographical position close to the North Sea influences weather patterns throughout the year, particularly with predominance of winds and rainfall. This climate type is characterized by relatively cool summers and mild winters with rain falling all year round.A closer look at the weather reveals that monthly average temperatures in Leeuwarden range from a low of 2.3°C (36.1°F) in February to a high of 20.3°C (68.5°F) in August. Relative humidity stays above 79%, suggesting a generally wet climate, with the highest recorded at 85% in December. Rainfall occurs throughout the year with the heaviest precipitation witnessed in August with an average of 46mm (1.81"). Rain is least in April, with levels dropping to 16mm (0.63"). The frequency of rainfall days is highest between July and December, peaking at 18.8 days in December
Unique weather patterns include the city's snowfall, which although irregular, is recorded from December to March, with the highest levels of 15mm (0.59") seen in January and February. Another distinct feature of Leeuwarden's climate is its wind speeds. Windy months are observed predominantly during the colder months. The wind is recorded traveling at an average of 26.8km/h (16.7mph) in December. Conversely, the calmer months of April to August register wind speeds of between 17.2km/h (10.7mph) and 18.3km/h (11.4mph).
The best time to visit Leeuwarden
Considering the overall weather profiles, the best time to visit Leeuwarden would be between May and September. During these months, the temperatures average between 14.2°C (57.6°F) and 20.3°C (68.5°F), providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. Additionally, these months have longer daylight hours, with average sunshine stretching from 8.9h in May to 9.9h in June. Maximum daylight is observed in June with up to 16.9 hours. While the precipitation is higher in these months, the improved climate conditions and extra daylight make this period more favorable for tourists.The worst time to visit Leeuwarden
Winter months between December and February might not make for the best time to visit Leeuwarden due to the relatively colder and windier weather. Average temperatures during this period range from 2.5°C (36.5°F) to 5.3°C (41.5°F). Wind speeds also increase, averaging 26.8km/h (16.7mph) in December. The length of daylight is at the shortest during these months, ranging from 7.6h in December to 9.9h in February.Spring weather in Leeuwarden
Spring in Leeuwarden, from March to May, sees a gradual rise in temperature. The average temperature starts at 7.8°C (46°F) in March and rises to 14.2°C (57.6°F) in May. Likewise, daylight hours increase from an average of 11.9h to 15.9h in May. Although the frequency of rainfall days remains relatively high, the total monthly rainfall decreases slightly. Wind speeds also lessen, falling from an average of 21.8km/h (13.5mph) in March to 18.3km/h (11.4mph) in May.Summer weather in Leeuwarden
Summer in Leeuwarden, from June to August, is usually mild and somewhat wet. Temperatures in the summer months range from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 20.3°C (68.5°F), the highest in the year. These months also see the longest daylight hours, reaching up to 16.9h in June. The relative humidity remains relatively high, indicating that the summer might be a bit muggy.Autumn weather in Leeuwarden
Autumn in Leeuwarden, from September to November, sees a drop in temperature, daylight hours and a rise in rainfall. The average temperatures during these months range from 17.6°C (63.7°F) in September to 9.6°C (49.3°F) in November. Daylight hours decrease from 12.7h in September to 8.7h in November. The rainfall is high, with November registering a significant average precipitation of 34mm (1.34").Winter weather in Leeuwarden
Winter in Leeuwarden, from December to February, witnesses the lowest temperatures with averages from 5.3°C (41.5°F) to 2.5°C (36.5°F). Daylight hours are minimal, with an average ranging from 7.6h to 9.9h. Snowfall is possible during these months, with highest measurements in January of 15mm (0.59"). Additionally, these months have high wind speeds, peaking at 26.8km/h (16.7mph) in December, contributing to the colder, severe weather.Weather in January
The year opens with the coldest month in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, chalked with frequent showers. Tight cover of clouds contribute to the cold spell. Despite longer nights, the amount of sunshine is noticeably minimal. The winds, arriving at impressive speeds of 25.8km/h (16mph), add a notable chill, shaking off any remaining warmth. Weather in January »Weather in February
In February, weather patterns in Leeuwarden remain mostly unchanged from January. The rainfall slightly decreases, and there are fewer snow days. However, the cool air does not show signs of warming, making Feburary a month fully encapsulated by winter's grasp. Weather in February »Weather in March
March brings the first whisper of spring in Leeuwarden. The weather gears towards milder conditions, but persistent clouds hinder the sun's attempts to break through. Yet spells of sunshine double and daylight hours increase by about two hours. Weather in March »Weather in April
In April, Leeuwarden experiences fine weather accompanied by the full bloom of spring. Desipte reduced rainfall, the moisture levels remain consistently high, fueling abundant greens. Longer daylight hours bring more opportunities to bask in the muted warmth of the sun. Weather in April »Weather in May
May ushers in steadily rising temperatures, indicative of Leeuwarden's approach towards summer. Residents anticipate more sunshine, offering a pleasant contrast to the preceding gloomy months. A subtle increase in rainfall ensures the city remains lush and vibrant. Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings the onset of summer in Leeuwarden. The change in season is evident, enhanced by significant increases in temperature. Prolonged daylight hours provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities. The conditions remain favorable throughout the month, making June one of the most accommodating months weatherwise. Weather in June »Weather in July
July endures as the warmest month in Leeuwarden. Temperatures peak, making it undeniably summery. While rainfall increases, the city does not experience extreme downpours. A high-pressure result caps the maximum wind speed to 17.2km/h (10.7mph), contributing to the hot conditions. Weather in July »Weather in August
In August, the weather patterns in Leeuwarden continue to follow July's outline. With temperatures remaining mostly steady, it stands as the second warmest month of the year. However, thunderstorm activity grows which results in the most rainfall during the year, observed at 46mm (1.81"). Weather in August »Weather in September
September signals the arrival of autumn in Leeuwarden. The temperatures begin to cool down and the days shorten. Despite a decrease in temperatures, the city retains its lush appearance, aided by regular bouts of rainfall. It's indeed a time of transition, a gradual shift from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter. Weather in September »Weather in October
October in Leeuwarden brings in an unmistakable autumn chill. The drop in temperature is a stark reminder of the impending winter. The sun, with its shrinking presence, finds it challenging to permeate through the thickening clouds. Weather in October »Weather in November
November marks the beginning of cold weather in Leeuwarden. The transition to winter firmly sets in, bearing cooler temperatures. Wind speeds increase, with a notable chill in the air. The shortened sunlight hours and deeper cloud cover amplify the bleak settings. Weather in November »Weather in December
December welcomes full-fledged winter weather in Leeuwarden. The city witnesses the shortest days of the year, exaggerating the winter chill. Ample cloud cover coupled with sparse sunlight results in sustained cold conditions. The month is marked by an increase in wind speed to 26.8km/h (16.7mph), further emphasizing the winter chill. Weather in December »Updated: Jan 25, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
The temperature in Leeuwarden hits its lowest levels in January and February, recording an average high-temperature of 5.3°C (41.5°F).
Throughout the year, in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, there are 188.1 rainfall days, and 390mm (15.35") of precipitation is accumulated.
Months with snowfall in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, are January through March, November and December.
The months with the most snowfall in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, are January and February, with an average 15mm (0.59") of accumulated snow.
In Leeuwarden, during the entire year, snow falls for 11.8 days and aggregates up to 43mm (1.69") of snow.
January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index in Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
The months with the lowest humidity in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, are April, May and August, with an average relative humidity of 79%.
The month with the least rainfall in Leeuwarden is April, when the rain falls for 11.1 days and typically collects 16mm (0.63") of precipitation.
April through October are months without snowfall in Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
With an average of 16h and 54min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Leeuwarden.
With an average of 9.9h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year in Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
With an average maximum UV index of 5, July is the month with the highest UV index in Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
In Leeuwarden, Netherlands, the average highest temperatures are observed in August, with a high of 20.3°C (68.5°F) and a low of 15.2°C (59.4°F).
August is the month with the most rainfall in Leeuwarden, Netherlands. Rain falls for 18.1 days and accumulates 46mm (1.81") of precipitation.
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from CEST to CET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from CET to CEST.
With an average relative humidity of 85%, December is the most humid month.
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 7h and 36min of daylight.
With an average of 3.4h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.
Average temperature
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (20.3°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are January and February (5.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (15.2°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (2.3°C).
Average pressure
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
- Average pressure in January:
1013.7mbar - Average pressure in February:
1013.5mbar - Average pressure in March:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.9mbar - Average pressure in May:
1016.4mbar - Average pressure in June:
1015.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1014.7mbar - Average pressure in August:
1014.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1016.2mbar - Average pressure in October:
1015mbar - Average pressure in November:
1010.7mbar - Average pressure in December:
1013mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is May (1016.4mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (1010.7mbar).
Average wind speed
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
- Average wind speed in January:
25.8km/h - Average wind speed in February:
24.9km/h - Average wind speed in March:
21.8km/h - Average wind speed in April:
18.3km/h - Average wind speed in May:
18.3km/h - Average wind speed in June:
17.6km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
17.2km/h - Average wind speed in August:
17.6km/h - Average wind speed in September:
19.3km/h - Average wind speed in October:
22.1km/h - Average wind speed in November:
23.3km/h - Average wind speed in December:
26.8km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is December (26.8km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (17.2km/h).
Average humidity
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (85%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April, May and August (79%).
Average rainfall
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (46mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (16mm).
Average rainfall days
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
- Average rainfall days in January:
16.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
12.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
15 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
18.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
17.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
17.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
18.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (18.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is April (11.1 days).
Average snowfall
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The months with the highest snowfall are January and February (15mm).
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
- Average snowfall days in January:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
4.1 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0.9 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
2.3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (4.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
- Average daylight in January:
8h and 12min - Average daylight in February:
9h and 54min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in April:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 54min - Average daylight in June:
16h and 54min
- Average daylight in July:
16h and 24min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 42min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 42min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 36min - Average daylight in November:
8h and 42min - Average daylight in December:
7h and 36min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 16h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 7h and 36min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 42min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 12min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 48min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 54min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 54min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 48min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 18min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 18min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 42min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 12min - Average sunshine in December:
3h and 24min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 9h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 3h and 24min).
Average sunshine days
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
- Average sunshine days in January:
9.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
10.2 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.7 days - Average sunshine days in April:
15.9 days - Average sunshine days in May:
14.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
9.6 days - Average sunshine days in August:
8.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
9.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
9.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
8.2 days - Average sunshine days in December:
7.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is March (16.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (7.1 days).
Average UV index
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 67).
The months with the least cloud cover are April and August (Cloud cover 39).
Average visibility
Leeuwarden, Netherlands
The months with the highest visibility are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January and December (9km).
